You're not alone. Here's a safe place, a growing place, a way out of the shadows of grief . . . This blog provides resources and Biblical direction for helping you trust Jesus through one of life's most difficult challenges.

Pages

Thursday, October 4, 2012

No matter what you thought of the debates last night, I want to share this challenge given by a pastor in my town this past Sunday. Whether you fast about the election, or the many other needs around you, here is the best "how to" about fasting I've come across. Read the entire article here. Beginning October 1, I want to challenge every member to fast and pray one day each week until after the election. Pray specifically for our nation, the election and the "peace of Jerusalem" (Psa.122:6). Also use this time to pray for specific needs in your own life—like deliverance from a besetting sin, the bondage of an addiction, sinful emotional habits or thought patterns. Don’t forget to intercede for lost or erring family and friends. Here are a few suggestions to make this time effective: Select one day each week during October to fast and pray. Choose a type of fast: An absolute fast (no food or water), a liquid fast (water and/or juice), or a partial fast (only certain foods like vegetables). If you have health concerns, check with your doctor before any rigorous fasting. Determine how long you intend to fast (I usually fast from after dinner until sunset the next day, or about 24 hours). Hunger is your call to prayer. Every time you are conscious of being hungry during the day, pray about things that concern you… sort of an ongoing prayer. Spend the time you would otherwise be eating (breakfast, lunch) in prayer and fasting.

Be especially conscious to humble yourself before the Lord and seek Him.

2 comments:

Ferree, Thank you for your solid encouragement on this website. I'm thankful you point us in directions that will truly bless our lives. I try and really put to practice what you suggest and I've always been encouraged that I know it's the right thing!! Thanks again

Thanks so much, Debbie! May the Lord really bless you in your walk with Him! It's a huge privilege and honor for me to be able to share the comfort and true source of encouragement God has given me. God is good, and He is faithful to complete the plans He has for each of us.

Thank you for taking the time to comment. I am not always able to reply but your remarks mean a lot to me and will appear as soon as possible.

Here are some tips for commenting: Remember to click the Publish button when you're done. Choosing the anonymous identity is easiest if you do not have your own blog.Using a computer rather than a cell phone seems to work better. Thanks again!

Ferree's book ...

"...one of the BEST books I've read for Widows!" Kathy E., widow

You're Invited . . .

Take hope, my friend, join in and watch the darkness turn to light and gather strength for your journey. You'll see the ways others have struggled, survived and thrived. You'll discover key Scriptures and insights from God's Word that will feed your soul and give you hope. Click on the Memorial Wall tab above, pray for these women and add your own listing. This blog is about you and God's work in the hearts of widows!

As we grieve, life continues on around us; we need to make adjustments and function inspite of our struggles. So this blog not only addresses grief and gives you role models, it also looks at the single-living skills, spiritual disciplines, laughter, rest and the renewing worship you'll need to juggle.

Some articles are food for thought, some are quick and helpful tips, and every once in a while we'll get just plain silly because laughter is still good medicine.

There's a new life waiting to meet you, and a new hope waiting to bloom in your heart. But don't worry about that for now. God knows you want your old life back. He understands. So for now, just visit, rest, relax and renew for the journey ahead.

Contributors

FeedBurner FeedCount

If you are feeling overwhelmed, desperate, anxious or depressed please contact nearby professionals such as your local pastor and your healthcare provider immediately. The help offered at this blog is not intended as a substitute for professional counseling or healthcare.

References to websites, books, organizations, people, photos and other resources and listings are not my personal endorsements in all cases at all times.